Date of Graduation

Summer 2026

Degree

Master of Science in Chemistry

Department

Chemistry & Biochemistry

Committee Chair

Cyren Rico

Abstract

Microplastics have emerged as a significant environmental concern, particularly in agricultural soils where they can interact with plants and potentially affect crop productivity and quality. This study investigated the effects of biodegradable and non-biodegradable microplastics on the growth, physiology, and elemental and metabolite composition of Pisum sativum L. (pea plants). Plants were cultivated under greenhouse conditions and exposed to 2% (w/w) compostable bioplastic (CBP) as a biodegradable microplastic and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) as a non-biodegradable microplastic. Plant growth and physiological parameters, including plant height, seed biomass, chlorophyll content, and lipid peroxidation, showed no significant differences between treatments and control, indicating that microplastic exposure did not induce measurable physiological stress within the experimental period. Elemental analysis revealed no significant changes in most micro- and macronutrients, although phosphorus and potassium concentrations were significantly reduced in HDPE-treated seeds. Antioxidant and amino acid profiles remained largely unchanged across treatments, suggesting minimal activation of conventional stress-response pathways. In contrast, metabolomic analysis revealed clear alterations in seed metabolite composition. Both CBP and HDPE treatments induced metabolic changes, with HDPE exhibiting a stronger effect. Significant reductions were observed in sugar metabolites, organic acids, and phenolic compounds, while increases in certain amino acids, nucleosides, and fatty acids were also detected. These findings indicate disruptions in central carbon metabolism, nitrogen metabolism, and lipid biosynthesis.

Keywords

emerging contaminants, environmental stress, plant metabolism, polyethylene, compostable, soil contamination

Copyright

© Blessing Bisola Akinwande

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Open Access

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